November 10, 2008

Some researchers at Oxford University have released a list of what they consider to be the top ten irritating phrases. Here is their list:

1 - At the end of the day2 - Fairly unique3 - I personally4 - At this moment in time5 - With all due respect6 - Absolutely7 - It's a nightmare8 - Shouldn't of9 - 24/710 - It's not rocket science

Some of them are grammatically incorrect (like #8), some are redundant (like #3 and #4), and some are just not accurate (#2 and #5). Some of them make the list because the researchers seem to feel that the phrase is overused. As Jeremy Butterfield explained:

We grow tired of anything that is repeated too often--an anecdote, a joke, a mannerism--and the same seems to happen with some language.

We probably all have our own list of phrases we find irritating. Any other nominations?

1. The use of "literally" when clearly the context isn't literal.2. When all is said and done

Your comment on redundancy reminded me of our principal's recorded message that was played over the loud speaker each morning at the start of school. "Let's all stand and say the pledge of allegiance in unison together."